How stress can rewire your brain and why you should care!
Trying to get healthier, you have probably heard a lot about minimizing stress, preventing stress, and overcoming stress. But, what about understanding stress further? What is it that stress actually does to your brain? How do neuroplasticity and stress interfere?
Read this article for insight on how stress can rewire your brain. But, rest assured, our intention is not to stress you with that information but increase your knowledge to motivate a change of attitude towards stress, perhaps!
Neuroplasticity is an umbrella term for the brain’s ability to adapt, alter, or change its structure and function. New connections are formed throughout life and as a response to experience. Although the brain has this capacity, brain plasticity may not always be in favor of an improved state. For example, the circuit will fire stronger when we do something good. Doing something that is not best for you will also contribute to rewiring.
Now, how does this relate to stress? Particular stress-inducing states or stress specifically can impede “positive neuroplasticity”! While the field tackling the impact of stress at a neuronal level could be thought to be in its infancy, there is promising research on the rise. Stress has been reported to disrupt plasticity. This disruption, whether stemming from genetics, the environment, or both, could trigger maladaptive behavior and contribute to stress-related mood disorders.
It would help if you remembered that brain plasticity is the enabling force behind adjusting your brain and body during stress. While stress can seed damage, understanding its impact can also motivate you to introduce positive changes to your lifestyle.
Protect yourself from damaging stress by implementing the following coping techniques:
• Change your attitude toward stress
• Establish some control over your situation
• Get a good night’s sleep
• Get organized
• Seek support if you need it, and it is accessible to you
We hope that you are now more determined to take action to rewire your brain. After all, if not you, then who?
